The Arizona Department of Education awarded Coconino Community College (CCC) an $80,000 federal grant to improve basic literacy skills, earn a GED, and obtain a Caregivers’ Certificate.
CCC is one of four colleges in the state to secure the two year Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (IBEST) grant. At least 160 students are expected to benefit.
“The College is extremely excited to provide this level of training and work with students, who otherwise, might not be able to succeed in college level course work. We hope they will continue their education,” said John Cardani, CCC’s Executive Director of Community and Corporate Learning Division.
The initiative is a collaboration between the College’s Community and Corporate Learning Division, CCC’s Nursing Department, Goodwill Industries of Northern Arizona, regional one-stop Career Centers and the Coconino County Career Center.
Instructors will provide training in career exploration, job skill development, resume writing, interviewing strategies, filling out job applications, and building computer skills. Students also will work on reading, math, writing and GED completion.
Caregiver training will be offered for a minimum of 55 hours for those people who want to earn Caregiver Certification. Classes will focus on caregiving, medications, nutrition, and professionalism. An essential component of the Caregiver Program will include clinical and work experience.
“Caregiving is a rewarding and challenging field. The College’s Caregiver Program trains students in nursing homes and in-home care,” Don Johnson, CCC Nursing Program Director said.
“This enterprise supports CCC’s mission to offer northern Arizona residents the tools they need to succeed in life,” said Ingrid Lee, CCC Dean of Arts and Sciences. “We encourage our students to receive the training they need to advance professionally and personally. The students come out with a bundle of skills that give them practical applications as a caregiver. The Caregiver Program will help people earn their GED and have an employable skill set,” she added.
Additional training as a Certified Nursing Assistant and a Registered Nurse are a possible career path. Students begin the program in early October of 2011.
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